Futuremark has released a new version of PCMark 8 that brings support for Windows 8.1 as well as fixes some issues noticed and reported with the previous version.

The biggest update for the 1.1.1111 version of the PCMark 8 is the support for Windows 8.1 and Internet Explorer 11. In addition to the new support, the new version of the PCMark 8 also brings updated SystemInfo v4.21, more detailed hardware monitoring graphics, faster SystemInfo scanning as well as a couple of new options in the OpenCL testing tab.

Unfortunately, the PCMark 8 is still only available as the Professional Edition with a US $1,495 price tag and there is still no word on the Advanced Edition that should cost US $49.95 or the Basic one that should be free.

It actually did not come a surprise that Futuremark is preparing the new version of its PC benchmarking utility PCMark 8, but the announcement contained a couple of surprises nevertheless. In addition to announcing the new PCMark 8, Futuremark noted that we will be able to see some new tests including the battery life testing and new Adobe and Microsoft application tests.

As it was the case with previous releases, the new PCMark 8 is also developed in partnership with some big names that are a part of Futuremark's Benchmark Development Program and which includes names like Acer, AMD, Condusiv Technologies, Dell, HGST, HP, Intel, Microsoft, Nvidia, Seagate and Western Digital.

In addition to standard benchmark tests that are based on common use scenarios such as browsing the web, photo editing, video chat, writing and gaming, Futuremark's new PCMark 8 will also include additional benchmark tests based on productivity and creativity applications from Adobe and Microsoft.

The new PCMark 8 will also include battery life tests and will be able to estimate battery use from each benchmark tests or loop a tests until the battery is almost empty.

As it was the case with previous PCMark benchmarks, this one will also be available in several editions including the free to download Basic Edition as well as the fully-features Professional Edition. It is compatible with both Windows 7 and Windows 8.

According to Futuremark, the PCMark 8 is in its final stages of development while the public release is expected towards the end of the Q2.